Abstract
Herein, dodecyl sulfate chain-anchored mercerized lignocellulosic (SMPS) agro-waste biomass was developed through hydrophobic interaction to enhance negatively charged surface sites concentration, consequently increasing SMPS potential to adsorb highly toxic cationic heavy metal ions viz. Pb(II), Cd(II), and Zn(II) from an aqueous phase. Spectrophotometric and elemental analyses confirmed successful modification and heavy metal ions adsorption over mesoporous SMPS surface. Experimental parameters viz. pH, concentration, temperature, and adsorbent dose have a profound influence on heavy metal ions adsorption. Lead [Pb(II)] had the lowest hydrolyzing tendency and the strongest binding potential among the studied metals; therefore, it showed the highest adsorption, followed by Cd(II) and Zn(II). Extremely rapid adsorption kinetics was observed, accomplishing 90-97% heavy metal ions adsorption within 15 min. Isotherm and kinetics studies showed Freundlich and pseudo-second-order models applicability, respectively. The process was endothermic and spontaneous. Breakthrough capacities for Pb(II), Cd(II), and Zn(II) were 0.01, 0.05, and 0.05 mmol/g, respectively. The maximum amounts of metal ions were eluted with acids. (c) 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 36: 1676-1684, 2017